Christchurch announces Multi-Use Arena expected for 2023

The Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce welcomes the announcement today by Minister Megan Woods and Christchurch Mayor Lianne Dalziel that provided more detail and timelines for the much debated and eagerly awaited Multi-Use Arena.

"The Chamber has consistently supported accelerating the Multi-Use Arena, so we celebrate the news that work will be underway on-site next month, starting with site remediation, and we are thrilled to now have a timeline that indicates construction is expected to begin in 2021, with completion expected before the end of 2023," says Chief Executive Leeann Watson.

Today’s announcement included the Government confirming that they have now approved the $220 million allocation from the Capital Acceleration Fund, voted on by Council recently.

"The economic and social benefits to the wider region, and the benefits to the visitor economy of a vibrant sporting and contemporary events calendar are significant, so this is a very definite, positive step in the right direction.

"We also find it incredibly heartening to see the focus on collaboration between the Crown and Council, and look forward to that collaboration extending to the private sector, which is vitally important."

The Canterbury Employers’ Chamber of Commerce sees the Multi-Use Arena not just as an asset for Christchurch, but also a facility that will add to the social fabric of the greater Christchurch and Canterbury communities, as well as the South Island.

It also welcomes the suggestion of creative thinking and considerations given to whole-of-life, incorporating both social and environmental sustainability in the procurement process in the long-term plan for the facility.

"We would wholly support an ambitious goal for the arena to become the most sustainable model in the country."

With aspirations for project construction due to be completed by the end of 2023, Leeann Watson says it will be important that creative ways of funding are considered now to address any potential funding shortfall.

"We need to make sure this project is fit-for-purpose - now and for future generations - and that design is led foremost by functionality without compromise. With such a broad mandate, innovative and creative funding and investment options will be important to maintain momentum on the project.

"One of The Chamber’s key focus areas is providing a voice for Canterbury business, to ensure that the potential of these key projects to make a significant positive impact on our local economy is realised. We look forward to continuing our work representing Canterbury business interests with the Council and Government to do that," said Leeann Watson.

ENDS

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